Rising from the waters of Narragansett Bay, Musselbed Shoals Light has guided mariners since 1873. This spark-plug style lighthouse stands as one of Rhode Island’s distinctive caisson lighthouses, built to mark dangerous shoals in the bay’s busy shipping channels.

The light remains active today, operated by the U.S. Coast Guard. As an offshore structure, it is not open to public access—visitors cannot climb the tower. However, photographers capture stunning images from boat tours or the shoreline, with golden hour providing the best lighting conditions.

Nearby attractions include historic Wickford Village, with its colonial architecture and waterfront dining, and the beaches of Narragansett. Charter boats offer close-up views of this maritime treasure.

Explore Nearby

• Nolte State Park — State Park in Washington
• Colt State Park — State Park in Rhode Island
• Meteor Lakes Byway — Scenic Byway in North Carolina
• Swamp Meadow Bridge — Covered Bridge in South Carolina
• Connecticut State Route 169 — Scenic Byway in Connecticut